‘Nothing beats the feeling of achievement’

Sarah Curphey lost motivation to walk alone after a relationship breakup. But then she decided to stop making excuses and to get out every day, and now feels happier, fitter and free. ‘I split with my partner in October after five years. We’d discovered a love of walking together and it was how we spent our weekends. After the split I couldn’t find the motivation to go out alone. I put on a lot of weight and didn’t feel great about myself.

‘But in January a friend suggested I sign up to #walk1000miles and I’m so glad I did. I decided I was going to walk every day in 2022 – no excuses – and that’s what I’ve done. The challenge gives me that extra motivation, and I find the stories of the members incredibly moving and inspiring – I’ve never been a member of such a supportive group of people. After just a few weeks I’d lost 16lbs.

‘It’s not been easy getting used to walking alone. If I’m unsure of the way, I haven’t got the opinion of another person or the feeling of safety I get if I’m not alone. But I’m not going to let any of that put me off because nothing beats the feeling of achievement when I complete the walk. And while I’m walking I feel a sense of freedom and happiness, and I come back with a completely clear head.

‘I’m still getting used to being on my own most evenings and weekends. But walking gets me out of the house doing something positive for myself so I’m not sitting around feeling lonely.

‘Recently I walked up a hill which had been my nemesis. I’d never been able to walk up it without stopping two or three times previously, and doing it in one go made me realise how far I’d come and that I was getting stronger and fitter. It felt fantastic!’

‘I’m motivated and I’ve never been a member of such a supportive group of people.’